“They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the LORD.” (Psalm 112:7, NIV)

In our world, bad news seems to be an unavoidable part of life. Whether it’s on the global scale or within our personal lives, unexpected and often unpleasant circumstances can challenge our peace of mind. However, Psalm 112:7 offers a different perspective for those who trust in the Lord.

The psalmist portrays the righteous person, not as immune to life’s hardships, but as one who has a steadfast heart in the face of them. The key here is not the absence of bad news but the posture of the heart in response to it. This posture is one of unshakeable trust in the Lord.

A steadfast heart indicates a deep and unchanging commitment. It reflects unwavering faith in God’s goodness, power, and faithfulness, regardless of circumstances. Such confidence doesn’t eliminate the possibility of receiving bad news, but it profoundly changes how we respond to it.

Instead of being swayed by the winds of circumstance, the righteous remain anchored in God’s promises. Their trust in God forms a fortress that bad news cannot breach, a sanctuary where fear finds no foothold. This trust is not a denial of reality, but a deeper reliance on God’s unchanging nature amidst changing circumstances.

God remains faithful, even when our circumstances are not. He is stable when everything else seems unstable. Our God is a refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1). As we trust in Him, we can find the courage to face whatever comes our way.

The promise of Psalm 112:7 is available to all who choose to trust in the Lord. May we, too, cultivate steadfast hearts that trust in the Lord, that we might face life’s uncertainties with unwavering faith and unshakeable confidence.

Wonder in the Word

In what ways does trusting in God’s faithfulness shape your response to the ‘bad news’ in your life?